The best lakeside camping near Mattoon

·

Mattoon draws campers with its lakeside spots—over 1,100 sites line the shorelines here, so you’ll rarely struggle to snag a view. Expect campsites that welcome campfires, pets, and hot showers. Prices start at $25 a night, with most places averaging $51. snow sports in winter, swimming in summer, and horseback riding year-round keep things interesting. Local favorites include 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (100 reviews), Serenity Fields Farm (65 reviews), and Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm (32 reviews). You’ll find everything from quiet farm stays to quirky, animal-friendly sites—just bring your gear and pick your lakeside retreat.

96% (277) 75 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mattoon

Serenity Fields Farm

1. Serenity Fields Farm

95%
(165)
31mi from Mattoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house.  (Or pick a spot of your choosing).  Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.).  In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit.  Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family.  There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
1912 Vintage Barn Experience

2. 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

99%
(138)
48mi from Mattoon · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
The 1912 Barn is a 114 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Our site is perfect for visiting local communities and the relaxing on our quiet site each evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see. You also have the opportunity to hike in some great parks and ride your bike on some outstanding central Illinois paths. If you happen to visit late summer enjoy the Illinois Farm Progress show and maybe catch a concert at the Devon Theatre on the lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Bella Vita Private Resort

3. Bella Vita Private Resort

93%
(40)
14mi from Mattoon · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones. Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita. For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities. For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience. At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Fox Ridge State Park

4. Fox Ridge State Park

44 sites · Charleston, Illinois
Your lazy Sunday just got a bit more action-packed! At Fox Ridge State Park, turn your lazy into relaxation: stroll through the rolling hills, causally boat around the lake, and picnic under a shady tree. Hike the trails and bring a camera to catch a snapshot of all the creatures and plants you’ll see! Nearby is the awesome Lincoln Log Historic Site, a definite must-see for historians and patriots alike.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Shelbyville

5. Lake Shelbyville

100%
(4)
322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Lakewood Campground

6. Camp Lakewood Campground

94%
(18)
25mi from Mattoon · 58 sites · RVs
Welcome to Camp Lakewood Campground! We are your premier Campground in Effingham, Illinois. We are proudly family-owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. Kiefer Campgrounds are part of a collection of parks that spare no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST! We are ideally located within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, and we are open year round. We are also golf-cart friendly. Give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

7. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

100%
(57)
49mi from Mattoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days. One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$32
 / night
Bird Watch at Pine Lake

8. Bird Watch at Pine Lake

95%
(11)
12mi from Mattoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property has a robust migratory bird population. We see Blue Heron, geese, ducks, song birds, birds of prey, including the occasional Bald Eagle visit our property. We have a small wetland area and pond, which attract a lot of wildlife, such as muskrat, deer, fox, frogs, turtles, and other small woodland animals. We have wooded areas as well as meadows, which are perfect for tent camping, and are a short walk from the parking area. Our property makes a great base camp for exploring local areas of interest. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is just a few miles south of Charleston. Lake Charleston is just a few miles away, and boasts several nesting pairs of Bald Eagles. There are also fishing, hiking and bike trails around Lake Charleston. We are very close to Illinois' largest Amish Community in the Arcola/Arthur area, with many Amish shops, bakeries, quilt shops, and more. Aikman's Wildlife Adventures is in nearby Chesterville. There is a very nice bike path just to the west of our property. This bike path takes you through Charleston, past the Coles County Fairgrounds, and into Mattoon.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Wolf Creek State Park

9. Wolf Creek State Park

148 sites · Findlay, Illinois
Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

10. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

106 sites · Findlay, Illinois
Why dip your toes into Eagle Creek Recreation Area when you can cannon ball in full force? Set right on Lake Shelbyville, this area offers prime access to all your favorite outdoor activities: sipping cold drinks on the shoreline, tossing the line the water, and soaking up that all-natural sunshine. Seriously, there is so much to do here—the expansive woodland areas, picturesque shorelines, and the shimmering waters of the lake are all calling your name.Whether you’re down for some hiking or mountain biking exploration or want to test out your windsurfing skills, you’ll find plenty of time to get it all in at Eagle Creek. Carp, bullhead, muskie, bluegill and others call the lake home and herds of deer are known to roam throughout the park—all that wildlife beauty will certainly move the soul (and hopefully the fishing line). Hurry up and get your outdoor escape on at this natural haven!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Walnut Point State Park

11. Walnut Point State Park

100%
(1)
55 sites · Oakland, Illinois
Combine water, woods, and wildlife at this state park in east-central Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lincoln Trail State Park

12. Lincoln Trail State Park

204 sites · Marshall, Illinois
The focus of Lincoln Trail State Park is the lovely Lincoln Trail Lake. It’s thickly-wooded shoreline and myriad of small coves and inlets, makes it a great lake for exploration and wildlife viewing. Around the lake, you’ll discover rare wildflowers, ancient forests, and shady ravines and valleys.Small boats with small motors (or, better yet, no motors) are perfect for serene explorations. Try your skill at hooking largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish. Then head over to one of two secluded campgrounds to set up your home away from home and fry up your catch. The pace is slow at Lincoln Trail State Park, and that’s just the way we like it.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

13. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

135 sites · Ramsey, Illinois
With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

Mattoon draws campers with its lakeside spots—over 1,100 sites line the shorelines here, so you’ll rarely struggle to snag a view. Expect campsites that welcome campfires, pets, and hot showers. Prices start at $25 a night, with most places averaging $51. snow sports in winter, swimming in summer, and horseback riding year-round keep things interesting. Local favorites include 1912 Vintage Barn Experience (100 reviews), Serenity Fields Farm (65 reviews), and Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm (32 reviews). You’ll find everything from quiet farm stays to quirky, animal-friendly sites—just bring your gear and pick your lakeside retreat.

96% (277) 75 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Mattoon

Serenity Fields Farm

1. Serenity Fields Farm

95%
(165)
31mi from Mattoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We are originally from Northern California. We are enjoying our expansive farm with all it's fresh air, fresh food, plants, animals, and fun events. We enjoy time relaxing in hammocks and letting the world pass us by. Bring your family out to enjoy all the farm has to offer, or take advantage of the serenity and privacy! We are open to family reunions & parties, large gatherings of friends etc! We are happy to have a group that can party and consume adult beverages without driving or worrying about making noise. Sites 2 & 3 can accommodate big groups and vehicles. If you want the farm to yourself, book all three sites! Message me to discuss possibilities. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent near the creek (site 1) in a completely private site (kids can sleep in the truck bed topper or fort if they'd like) or on the field to the side of the house (site 2) for a semi-private spot nearest to the bathroom and with a wood chip drive entrance for larger vehicles or (site 3) a semi- private spot down by the creek and the hay bales to the left of the house.  (Or pick a spot of your choosing).  Enjoy the farm animals, walk the property, build a fire, and enjoy the outdoors! There are more animals to pet from April through October (typically we have bunnies, chickens, sheep, cats, dogs, alpacas, miniature horses, horses, pig, goat, etc.).  In the winter the horses, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats and sometimes bunnies are available to visit.  Firewood bundles available for $10 The creek at times is swimmable, other times it's walkable, and sometimes in the heat of July it's very shallow. There is a zip line, log or bridge to cross the creek. There is a state park (Ft. Daniel) less than 5 minutes away and others a bit further (Spitler or Sand Creek) Horseback riding may be available upon request - $25.00 per person or $50.00 per family.  There is a large shaded playground in the front yard for the kids with a trampoline, small zip line, ninja line, slack line, silks, climbing dome, hammocks, etc. BATHROOM: If you are looking at the house from the street, the bathroom is on the right of the house, attached to the house. It is a small shed looking building and is pictured. It has a toilet and running hot and cold water.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$24
 / night
1912 Vintage Barn Experience

2. 1912 Vintage Barn Experience

99%
(138)
48mi from Mattoon · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
The 1912 Barn is a 114 historic post and beam barn that makes a wonderful backdrop for a night out in the country. Located only 25 minutes from Springfield historic sites and 10 minutes from Decatur, IL this location makes it easy to tour during the day and relax by the camp fire in the evening. Our site is perfect for visiting local communities and the relaxing on our quiet site each evening. Decatur has a mini golf course, splash cove water park, children's zoo and museum, a governor's mansion for tours and 3 museums to visit. Milikin University offers local college level sports. Decatur has a great lake for paddle boarding, boating and fishing with canoe trips down the local Sangamon River. Several local breweries and cute market areas makes Decatur a great place to visit. Take a ride on the trolley and learn out our history. Springfield sites are only a hop and skip away with many things to see and learn. Museums offer great programs and the New Salem Park is a fun day trip with the kids to learn about historic living. Lincoln's sites around in several counties are great to see. You also have the opportunity to hike in some great parks and ride your bike on some outstanding central Illinois paths. If you happen to visit late summer enjoy the Illinois Farm Progress show and maybe catch a concert at the Devon Theatre on the lake.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Bella Vita Private Resort

3. Bella Vita Private Resort

93%
(40)
14mi from Mattoon · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Bella Vita Resort and Glamping where we're dedicated to reviving the timeless joy of family bonding and outdoor adventure. In a world where life moves quickly, we invite you to slow down and savor every moment with your loved ones. Our mission is simple: to provide a wide array of group activities that cater to all ages, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor experience, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Bella Vita. For those traveling with RVs, we offer spacious sites with 30/50-amp with partial and full hookups, providing the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. If you prefer luxury tent camping, you will love our glamping tents. Our regular tent sites come equipped with 110 amp electric, allowing you to enjoy a cozy retreat under the stars while still having access to modern amenities. For true nature enthusiasts, we also offer primitive sites situated along the serene lake or river, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply taking in the picturesque views, our primitive sites offer a truly immersive camping experience. At Bella Vita Resort, we believe that life is meant to be lived to the fullest. Join us in embracing the simple pleasures of outdoor adventure and family bonding, and rediscovering the joy of living your best life.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$30
 / night
Fox Ridge State Park

4. Fox Ridge State Park

44 sites · Charleston, Illinois
Your lazy Sunday just got a bit more action-packed! At Fox Ridge State Park, turn your lazy into relaxation: stroll through the rolling hills, causally boat around the lake, and picnic under a shady tree. Hike the trails and bring a camera to catch a snapshot of all the creatures and plants you’ll see! Nearby is the awesome Lincoln Log Historic Site, a definite must-see for historians and patriots alike.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lake Shelbyville

5. Lake Shelbyville

100%
(4)
322 sites · Shelbyville, Illinois
Discover all the fuss behind this lake in central Illinois.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Lakewood Campground

6. Camp Lakewood Campground

94%
(18)
25mi from Mattoon · 58 sites · RVs
Welcome to Camp Lakewood Campground! We are your premier Campground in Effingham, Illinois. We are proudly family-owned and operated by Kiefer Campgrounds. Kiefer Campgrounds are part of a collection of parks that spare no expense to ensure your stay with us is nothing less than the BEST! We are ideally located within 1 mile of I-70 and I-57, and we are open year round. We are also golf-cart friendly. Give us a call at 217-342-1111 for more details.
Pets
Full hookups
from 
$51
 / night
Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

7. Camp with Alpacas at Aris Farm

100%
(57)
49mi from Mattoon · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
This was once a self sustaining farm built in the 1950s. The farm raised cattle, pigs, chickens. There was 35 tillable acres which produced corn and oats for the livestock. The farm had its own feed grinder in the old barn. There is an old hand built cooler room where all the meat was stored. There are four wells on the farm one of which is used for watering animals and cooling alpacas on hot summer days. One of our tent sites is in the corner of our alpaca pasture. You'll hear the roosters, goats, donkeys and more than likely, Rose, our Maremma livestock guardian dog, throughout your stay.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$32
 / night
Bird Watch at Pine Lake

8. Bird Watch at Pine Lake

95%
(11)
12mi from Mattoon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Our property has a robust migratory bird population. We see Blue Heron, geese, ducks, song birds, birds of prey, including the occasional Bald Eagle visit our property. We have a small wetland area and pond, which attract a lot of wildlife, such as muskrat, deer, fox, frogs, turtles, and other small woodland animals. We have wooded areas as well as meadows, which are perfect for tent camping, and are a short walk from the parking area. Our property makes a great base camp for exploring local areas of interest. Lincoln Log Cabin State Historic Site is just a few miles south of Charleston. Lake Charleston is just a few miles away, and boasts several nesting pairs of Bald Eagles. There are also fishing, hiking and bike trails around Lake Charleston. We are very close to Illinois' largest Amish Community in the Arcola/Arthur area, with many Amish shops, bakeries, quilt shops, and more. Aikman's Wildlife Adventures is in nearby Chesterville. There is a very nice bike path just to the west of our property. This bike path takes you through Charleston, past the Coles County Fairgrounds, and into Mattoon.
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$25
 / night
Wolf Creek State Park

9. Wolf Creek State Park

148 sites · Findlay, Illinois
Reserve the 30-person Lost Shelter picnic area, an isolated, secluded site that overlooks the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

10. Eagle Creek State Recreation Area

106 sites · Findlay, Illinois
Why dip your toes into Eagle Creek Recreation Area when you can cannon ball in full force? Set right on Lake Shelbyville, this area offers prime access to all your favorite outdoor activities: sipping cold drinks on the shoreline, tossing the line the water, and soaking up that all-natural sunshine. Seriously, there is so much to do here—the expansive woodland areas, picturesque shorelines, and the shimmering waters of the lake are all calling your name.Whether you’re down for some hiking or mountain biking exploration or want to test out your windsurfing skills, you’ll find plenty of time to get it all in at Eagle Creek. Carp, bullhead, muskie, bluegill and others call the lake home and herds of deer are known to roam throughout the park—all that wildlife beauty will certainly move the soul (and hopefully the fishing line). Hurry up and get your outdoor escape on at this natural haven!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Walnut Point State Park

11. Walnut Point State Park

100%
(1)
55 sites · Oakland, Illinois
Combine water, woods, and wildlife at this state park in east-central Illinois.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Lincoln Trail State Park

12. Lincoln Trail State Park

204 sites · Marshall, Illinois
The focus of Lincoln Trail State Park is the lovely Lincoln Trail Lake. It’s thickly-wooded shoreline and myriad of small coves and inlets, makes it a great lake for exploration and wildlife viewing. Around the lake, you’ll discover rare wildflowers, ancient forests, and shady ravines and valleys.Small boats with small motors (or, better yet, no motors) are perfect for serene explorations. Try your skill at hooking largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and channel catfish. Then head over to one of two secluded campgrounds to set up your home away from home and fry up your catch. The pace is slow at Lincoln Trail State Park, and that’s just the way we like it.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

13. Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area

135 sites · Ramsey, Illinois
With its rolling hills and timbered shoreline, Ramsey Lake State Recreation Area has become a popular spot for relaxation and recreation. Visitors enjoy quiet strolls in the forest, secluded picnicking, as well as more energetic activities.Fishing is huge here, so the lake is managed by draw-downs and stocking. Some species found are largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, channel catfish and black crappie. Hit up the concession stand for supplies. Other popular pastimes include hunting (dove, pheasant, quail, deer) and winter sports like fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating. There’s even a 13-mile designated snowmobile trail.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field